I was playing with my Barbie Dream House, dreaming of the mega-mansion I was going to have one day when my momma mumbled in her southernesce voice, “Ya, wait ’til you get hit with that utility bill!”  What?  What in the world was she talking about?  Utilities?  Pffft.

Welcome to adulthood.  You know that little pill that we have to swallow when Momma’s right? Gulp!  You see, here in Texas, we are a friendly bunch of Mommas unless you catch us on a day that’s hotter than tarnation with rolling brownouts, or we just got our electric bill.

Here are some tips on conserving energy that will help save you some money, keep you more comfortable, and keep Momma happy!

Double Pane Windows
A lot of spec homes in builder communities come with single pane windows.  While single pane gets the job done, it’s not really energy efficient. If you are having a new home built, request double pane.  It is double protection from the Texas heat.   If you already have a home with single pane windows, do some digging and decide if it is worth it to you to switch them out.

Solar Screens
Okay, they are not the prettiest in my opinion, but they are effective in blocking the sun’s heat rays.

Mind Your Attic!
Do you know it can get up to 160 in your attic?  It’s a heat trap!  Have a  roofer come check your attic ventilation and don’t skimp on the attic insulation.

Seal Your Windows and Doors
Take a quick stroll down to your hardware store.  This is an easy DIY!  Caulk is your friend.  Grab a tube for windows and get the right weather stripping for doors.  It makes a huge difference when you can seal up those drafts.

Tint Your House Windows
Window tint is also available at your local hardware store.  You can DIY or have a local handyman apply it for you.

Hang Blackout Curtains and Close Blinds
I know we all like light, but if there is a room we are not in, keeping the curtains the blinds closed keeps the room cooler.  This is especially helpful for windows that take a direct hit from the sun on the east and west side of a house.

Ceiling Fans
These are a must in Texas!  Ceiling fans help to circulate stagnate air. The size should be determined by the size of the room.  In summer, set your fan to turn counter clockwise.  In winter, set your fan to turn clockwise to pick up and disperse the lighter, warmer air.

Motion Sensor Lights
This is huge for those of us who have kids.  It feels like I’m forever turning lights off!  There are motion sensor light switches, and now with smart homes, it’s a game changer!

Keep the Garage Door Closed
There is no insulation in a garage.  Keeping the door closed helps keep the hot air from rushing in.  If the garage is attached to your house, it will help keep the house cooler.

Have Your Air Conditioner Serviced Annually By A Professional Technician.
ACs in Texas take a brutal bruising in the summer months.  Keeping it serviced will keep it running better and lasting longer.